HMX Blue Topaz vs. Outemu Gold
An in-depth look at the HMX Blue Topaz and the Outemu Gold switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options to consider are the HMX Blue Topaz and the Outemu Gold. The Blue Topaz is a linear switch that stands out for its smooth actuation and lightweight feel, providing a seamless typing experience. Its distinctive glittery housing not only catches the eye but also contributes to a satisfying clacky sound signature. On the other hand, the Outemu Gold is a clicky switch that offers a tactile feedback with each keystroke. While the Blue Topaz is best for those looking for an easy-to-press and clacky switch, the Gold is ideal for users who prefer a more tactile typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
40g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
48g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.90 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Ly
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the HMX Blue Topaz and the Outemu Gold, both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing that creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the relatively stiff nature of polycarbonate, which leads to a clear and resonant sound. Aesthetically, the translucency of polycarbonate is especially useful for switches with RGB lighting. The similarities in the top housing materials of both switches suggest that users can expect similar sound profiles and performance in terms of sound clarity and resonance.
However, when looking at the bottom housings, the Blue Topaz features a nylon bottom housing that elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Outemu Gold also utilizes a nylon bottom housing, providing a similar deep and full sound profile. The use of nylon in the bottom housing of both switches suggests that users can expect a consistent typing experience in terms of sound depth and richness.
Overall, the differences between the top and bottom housings of the HMX Blue Topaz and the Outemu Gold lie in the materials used for each component. While both switches feature polycarbonate top housings for a sharp and clear sound profile, the Blue Topaz has a nylon bottom housing for a deeper sound, while the Outemu Gold shares this feature. The split qualities of the bottom and top housings impact the typing experience, with the bottom housing influencing the bottom-out sound and feel, and the top housing affecting the sound when releasing a key. Despite these differences, users can expect a consistent level of performance and sound quality from both switches.
Weight
The HMX Blue Topaz linear switch has a lighter actuation force and bottom out force compared to the Outemu Gold clicky switch. The Blue Topaz requires 40 grams of force to actuate a keystroke and 48 grams to bottom out, making it a lighter option overall. In contrast, the Gold switch has a higher actuation force of 45 grams and a heavier bottom out force of 60 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience. Those who prefer a lighter touch may lean towards the Blue Topaz for longer typing or gaming sessions, while those who enjoy a stronger push feel may opt for the Outemu Gold switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference based on typing style and desired typing experience.
Travel distance
Comparing the travel distance of the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch and the Outemu Gold clicky switch, we can see that the Blue Topaz has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.9 mm compared to the Gold's 4 mm. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Gold being on the slightly longer side. Gamers looking for faster response times may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Blue Topaz, while those who prefer a more substantial key press may lean towards the longer travel distance of the Gold. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference and typing style. If you prefer a more responsive feel, the Blue Topaz may be the better option, while if you prefer a deeper key press, the Outemu Gold might be more suitable for your needs.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Blue Topaz has an MSRP of $4.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Blue Topaz for $3.49.
The Outemu Gold comes in at $3.10 per 10 switches.
Here at Milktooth, we offer the best prices on switches (on average, 27% lower the competition). In addition, we offer free shipping on orders over $49.00. We also offer free returns and exchanges, so you can shop with guaranteed satisfaction.
That said, while price is an important piece of the puzzle, our opinion is that you should ultimately pick the option that most suits your unique preferences since you’ll be using these switches for years to come. In other words, finding something perfect for you is, in our view, the most important criteria.
Typing experience
When it comes to sound, the Blue Topaz linear switch offers a clacky typing experience, producing a sharp and snappy sound with each key press. This sound is crisp, bright, and percussive, adding a satisfying auditory element to your typing sessions. On the other hand, the Outemu Gold clicky switch's sound characteristics are unknown. Depending on your personal preference and surrounding environment, the sound produced by each switch may vary, and can be further influenced by factors such as your keyboard setup and keycap selection.
Moving on to feel, the Blue Topaz switch distinguishes itself with an easy-to-press design that offers gentle resistance during key presses. This lightweight feel requires minimal force to activate, making typing effortless and comfortable while reducing finger fatigue during long typing sessions. The responsive and low-impact typing feel of the Blue Topaz enhances the overall typing experience. As for the Outemu Gold clicky switch, information about its feel characteristics is not available. However, if the Blue Topaz's easy-to-press nature is what you're looking for, you may also enjoy similar results with the Outemu Gold switch.
In conclusion, the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch stands out for its smooth actuation, lightweight feel, distinctive glitter housing, and clacky sound signature that adds to the visual and auditory appeal for users. With its easy-to-press design offering minimal resistance and comfortable typing experience, the Blue Topaz is a popular choice among keyboard enthusiasts. The Outemu Gold clicky switch, while lacking specific information on sound and feel qualities, may provide a similar typing experience to the Blue Topaz if you prefer a light actuation force and a responsive typing feel. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches would come down to personal preference and the specific typing experience you are looking to achieve.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch and the Outemu Gold clicky switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a smooth and light actuation with a clacky sound signature, the Blue Topaz may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium actuation force and a clicky sound, the Outemu Gold switch could be more suitable. Consider factors like typing speed, typing accuracy, and overall typing experience when making your decision. Ultimately, both switches have their own unique features and benefits, so choose the one that aligns best with your preferences.
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